Andalusia, Alabama to Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Southern Road Trip Adventure!
Are you ready for a road trip from the heart of Alabama to the stunning landscapes of Tennessee? Look no further, as we guide you through the different routes from Andalusia to Gatlinburg, highlighting their distances, times, and recommending some unforgettable stops along the way.
Route 1: The I-20 and I-75
If you're a fan of straightforward routes, this one may be the perfect one for you. Starting in Andalusia, you will take the I-65N towards Birmingham. After that, switch to I-20E for 120 miles until you get to Atlanta. Then, take the I-75N for an additional 173 miles until you reach Gatlinburg.
This route covers a total distance of 409 miles, and you can expect it to take about 6 hours and 45 minutes. During this road trip, you will encounter some beautiful landscapes along the Appalachian Mountains, and you can enjoy some of the most iconic roadside stops such as Georgia's Peach City or Chattanooga's Tennessee Aquarium.
Route 2: The Natural Wonders Route
If you're looking for a more scenic journey through nature and state parks, then this route may be the best fit for you. Starting in Andalusia, take the US-84E towards Tuskegee and then the US-29N towards Atlanta. Once there, take the I-75N for 18 miles until you reach the I-575 N towards the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Continue on to reach the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and then onto Gatlinburg.
This route takes a little longer, at 8 hours and 30 minutes. However, it covers a total distance of 458 miles, and it's a great adventure for those looking for a more immersive experience in nature. Along the way, you can stop at the Okefenokee Swamp Park in Georgia, or visit the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.
Route 3: The Southern Belle Route
If you're looking for that southern charm along with scenic drives, then this route may be the most suitable for you. Starting from Andalusia, take the US-31N towards Montgomery and switch to I-85N towards Atlanta. Once there, take the US-23N for 40 miles through the Northeast Georgia Mountains and onto Gatlinburg.
This route covers 386 miles and takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes. It features some classic southern stops such as Alabama's Capitol Park or the Talladega Superspeedway. Additionally, you can visit the Georgia Guidestones, the curious granite monument, or explore Dahlonega's antique shops along the way.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have an idea of some of the diverse routes available, keep safety in mind and allow plenty of time for stops and breaks. Some recommended stops include Birmingham's McWane Science Center, Chattanooga's Rock City Gardens, or Georgia's Toccoa Falls. So, grab your bags, pick your route, and enjoy the adventure!